Professional ethics come from three sources, according to Brandi Neloms:

Yourself

Your company/agency

Your professional organization (PRSA/PRSSA)

Neloms made sure to emphasize that students always look at the code of ethics of any company or agency they apply to work or intern at.

She noted that students should not be afraid to stand up for what they believe in at the workplace. They should speak up if they are given a project or put on an account they are not comfortable working with. She said most employers are understanding.

Speaking to a packed room, Neloms emphasized the importance of weighing an ethical dilemma and being personally comfortable with ethical decisions.